Adderall vs. Focus Factor

Amid growing concerns about the long-term effects of prescription psychostimulants such as Adderall, many people have begun looking for safer, more "natural" treatments, such as Focus Factor, to increase focus and concentration.

Composition

The makers of Focus Factor claim it is an all-natural dietary supplement containing 40 different ingredients, such as omega-3 fish oil, choline and huperzine A.

Uses

Adderall is widely prescribed to treat Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) as well as narcolepsy. As a psychostimulant, Adderall works by increasing the level of dopamine and norepineprine in the brain resulting in increased focus and concentration.

Focus Factor is not specifically formulated to treat ADHD or any other disorder, but rather to increase memory.

Efficacy

Clinical studies have shown Adderall to effectively treat ADHD in both children and adults. Currently, no reliable evidence or studies back up Focus Factor's purported benefits.

Cost

The cost of Adderall varies widely based on the dosage and the patient's health insurance plan.

A bottle of Focus Factor (60 pills) can cost as much as $50 when purchased online or in health food stores.

Side Effects

According to the Mayo Clinic, side effects commonly associated with Adderall include "bladder pain; cloudy or bloody urine; burning or painful urination; fast, pounding, or irregular heartbeat or pulse; and lower back or side pain."

Because it is a vitamin supplement, there are no major side effects associated with Focus Factor; however, there is a possibility of harmful drug interactions.